20 top herbs and spices that thrive in 5 gallon buckets

Bay laurel is an evergreen shrub known for its aromatic leaves, commonly used in soups and stews. It grows well in five-gallon buckets, needing full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Bay laurel is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings.

Prune bay laurel regularly to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, adding a subtle, earthy flavor to a variety of dishes. Bay laurel is also a beautiful ornamental plant, with its glossy, dark green leaves providing year-round interest.

Fennel is a perennial herb with a distinctive anise flavor, commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. It grows well in five-gallon buckets, needing full sun and well-draining soil. Fennel prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly.

Harvest fennel leaves and seeds for culinary use. The leaves can be used fresh in salads and sauces, while the seeds add flavor to breads and desserts. Fennel’s feathery foliage and yellow flowers also make it an attractive ornamental plant.

Marjoram is a perennial herb with a sweet, mild flavor, similar to oregano but more delicate. It grows well in five-gallon buckets, needing full sun and well-draining soil. Marjoram is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings.

Harvest marjoram leaves regularly to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming woody. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, adding a subtle flavor to soups, stews, and salad dressings. Marjoram is a versatile herb that complements a variety of dishes.

Catnip is a perennial herb known for its effect on cats, but it also has culinary and medicinal uses. It grows well in five-gallon buckets, needing full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Catnip prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly.

Harvest catnip leaves and flowers for use in teas and herbal remedies. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, and they have a mild minty flavor. Catnip is also a beautiful ornamental plant, with its gray-green leaves and lavender flowers attracting pollinators.

Chamomile is an annual herb known for its calming properties and daisy-like flowers. It grows well in five-gallon buckets, needing full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Chamomile prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly.

Harvest chamomile flowers for use in teas and herbal remedies. The flowers can be used fresh or dried, adding a soothing flavor to teas and infusions. Chamomile’s delicate flowers also make it a beautiful ornamental plant, attracting pollinators to the garden.

Lemon balm is a perennial herb with a fresh, lemony scent, commonly used in teas and desserts. It grows well in five-gallon buckets, needing full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Lemon balm prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly.

Harvest lemon balm leaves regularly to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, adding a bright, citrusy flavor to a variety of dishes. Lemon balm is also a beautiful ornamental plant, with its bright green leaves and small white flowers.

Stevia is a perennial herb known for its sweet leaves, used as a natural sugar substitute. It grows well in five-gallon buckets, needing full sun and well-draining soil. Stevia prefers consistently moist soil, so water it regularly.

Harvest stevia leaves regularly to encourage new growth. The leaves can be used fresh or dried, adding a natural sweetness to teas, desserts, and beverages. Stevia is a low-calorie alternative to sugar, making it a popular choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake.